I am heading to Paris next week to celebrate the 40th birthday of one of my girlfriends. There will be 3 of us at dinner -- we all love fine dining, but we also like to have fun, and I'm having a hard time choosing between all the incredible restaurants in Paris. I have tentative reservations at Taillevent, Apicius, and Alain Ducasse, but I'm not sure if those will be too stuffy and/or romantic for us. It's not like we want to hang from the chandeliers, but a more fun or lively scene to complement amazing food would be ideal. Any ideas? Btw, we're on the waiting list for Jules Verne at the birthday girl's request, but aren't counting on getting in there. Thanks for any help you can give! -- Lynn

Hi Lynn,

Both Alsin Ducasse and Taillevant are amazing experiences that will be fun to share with friends. I think you should also try a couple of low-key, relaxed bistros--I'd suggest Cheri Bibi and Le Chateaubriand, both of which are in Hungry for Paris.

Bon Voyage, Alec